PM Modi flags off Vande Bharat Sleeper between Howrah and Guwahati

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday flagged off the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train service on the Howrah–Guwahati route, marking a significant milestone in Indian Railways’ push towards high-speed, passenger-centric travel.

Built using indigenous technology, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is designed to run at a maximum speed of 180 kmph and offers long-distance overnight travel with enhanced comfort and safety. The 16-coach train has a total passenger capacity of around 823 and includes Third AC, Second AC and First Class AC coaches.

Passengers travelling on the sleeper Vande Bharat will have access to several modern amenities, including comfortable berths, automatic sliding doors, the Kavach safety system, CCTV surveillance and improved sanitation facilities. In a major departure from conventional long-distance trains, the sleeper Vande Bharat will not have a waiting list or RAC system. Tickets will be issued only on a confirmed basis, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience for passengers.

Indian Railways has fixed a minimum chargeable distance of 400 kilometres for fare calculation. As per the approved tariff, passengers will be charged Rs 2.40 per kilometre in Third AC, Rs 3.10 per kilometre in Second AC and Rs 3.80 per kilometre in First Class AC. 

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Accordingly, the minimum fare works out to Rs 960 for Third AC, Rs 1,240 for Second AC and Rs 1,520 for First Class AC, excluding 5 per cent GST.

Another notable feature of the new service is the abolition of the officers’ quota in the sleeper Vande Bharat coaches. Railway officials said the introduction of the sleeper variant will significantly enhance long-distance connectivity while setting new benchmarks in speed, safety and passenger comfort.